Zaska - Nectar

What We Had; No Right Time; The Papez; So Many Things; Wanna Go; Blockbuster; Into You; Ever Cross Your Mind; Play The Game; Dust; Do It Again

(Zaska Music)

Irish-born Max Zaska and his band may not be a familiar entity yet; however, it is only a matter of time before they are mentioned alongside other neo-soul artists such as Erykah Badu, Jill Scott and D’Angelo, acts who have influenced Zaska. Add those influences alongside Incognito and other jazz and R&B performers and you will have a good idea of what to expect on Zaska's third album

Featuring an array of guest vocalists that include Gemma Dunleavy, Melina Malone and Mik Pyro from Republic of Loose, Nectar begins as it means to go on with What We Had where a seductive vocal from shiv combines with an atmospheric track that sounds like the perfect soundtrack to any good summer's day. The lyrical content details the breakdown of a romantic relationship, though for any listener new to Zaska this introductory number is the start of a new musical partnership that is just beginning.

The Erykah Badu influence comes to the fore on No Right Time where Melina Moore brings a touch of Silk Sonic to the party as well. Apparently the track was written in Paris; not surprisingly, the song has the flair and grace of the French capital.

The Papez comes with an R&B and hip hop courtesy of jarjarjr on a number that shows that there are more colours on Zaska's palette than first imagined.

Released as a single, Dust follows the neo-soul template again with the emotional vocals of Shiv. From the shores of Ireland right down to the jazz festivals in the south of France, this warm and inviting song turns from dust into pure gold, demanding to be heard by any discerning music lover who appreciates a well-constructed jazz-based number.

The album closes with Do It Again, this time emphasising acts such as En Vogue and TLC in a sublime and soulful ballad that concludes an album where not one moment fades to grey, resulting in an uplifting, positive and bright recording.